Transfer Centre

Newcastle United favourites to sign Leicester City striker Islam Slimani?

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 21 December 2017

Newcastle United seemingly emerge as the favourites to sign Leicester City forward Islam Slimani during the January transfer window.

Leicester City forward Islam Slimani has seemingly emerged as a major transfer target for Newcastle United.

Slimani has dropped down the pecking order at the King Power Stadium, with Jamie Vardy, Kelechi Iheanacho and Leonardo Ulloa all deemed in front of the Algerian international by boss Claude Puel.

Stoke City, Watford and West Bromwich Albion have all been linked with the player in recent weeks, but a number of bookmakers regard Newcastle as Slimani's most likely destination.

With Joselu and Dwight Gayle having only scored three goals apiece in the Premier League, manager Rafael Benitez is keen to strengthen his attack at the start of 2018.

The Magpies are likely to have funds to spend, but Leicester could demand a large fee for Slimani having spent £29m on his signature ahead of the 2016-17 campaign.

During his time in the East Midlands, the 29-year-old has scored 12 goals in 20 starts and 21 substitute outings in all competitions.